Ireland vs. South Africa: Winners and Losers from Dublin

Ireland’s post-Brian O’Driscoll era got off to a dream start with a stunning 29-15 win over South Africa on Saturday—conquerors of the All Blacks just a few weeks ago.

Ireland were missing several key men, but their replacements performed superbly to inflict South Africa’s first defeat to Northern Hemisphere opposition since coach Heyneke Meyer took over, per BBCSport.co.uk.

Here are the winners and losers.

Winner: Jonny Sexton

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Jonny Sexton put in one of his best displays in an Irish jersey to mastermind this victory.

He had a perfect evening from the tee, and his kicking from hand was also superb, as he pinned the Springboks deep in their own territory.

He scored 16 points in all, and on this form he could arguably be hailed as the best No. 10 on the block right now.

Winner: Rhys Ruddock

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Ruddock was only called into the starting line-up when Chris Henry withdrew through illness, but the Leinster back rower was one of the best players on the field.

He scored a try and was immense defensively against a side that dominated territory and possession.

Winner: Jack McGrath

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South Africa had the better of the scrum, but Irish prop McGrath made up for his struggles at the set piece with a monumental defensive shift.

The loose–head made 17 tackles—a total only equaled by Paul O’Connell.

Cian Healy would be missed by any side, but McGrath stepped into the breach and performed admirably.

Loser: Francois Hougaard

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South African scrum–half Hougaard had a match to forget.

After the Boks had opted to kick for the touchline rather than go for goal, Hougaard fumbled the ball from the ensuing maul, and the chance was gone.

He was not alone in wasting promising opportunities for his side, but he had a poor game all round.

Loser: Adriaan Strauss

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Hooker Strauss was sent to the bin at a crucial stage for South Africa.

He was yellow-carded for hitting Rob Kearney in the air. While his side were down to 14 men, Jonny Sexton kicked another penalty, and Tommy Bowe’s try hammered the final nail in South Africa’s coffin.

A costly 10 minutes indeed.